Social science and study skills courses

Exploring Spirituality

Course length: 6 weeks

Learning type: On campus learning

This 6 week course will offer you a chance to further explore the meaning of spirituality. Spirituality touches so much of our lives, whether through the things that give us meaning and purpose, or the things that lift our spirits and bring us hope and connection.

The course will include learning about some lesser-known religions, with at least 1 visiting speaker. We will also explore some of the many nonreligious paths to the spiritual, for example through poetry, story or contact with nature.

Everyone is welcome to attend, you don't need to be religious.

Introduction to History via the Renaissance

Course length: 8 weeks

Learning type: On campus learning 

This course is designed to introduce students to the methods used to study cultural and intellectual history. To do so, it will focus on analysing aspects of the worldview of Renaissance Europeans. This course is suited to those with no experience studying history, but even those with knowledge about this topic will have an opportunity to learn something new.

Rootstock: Creative Connections with British Plants

Course length: 5 weeks (monthly sessions). 

Learning type: On campus learning 

Join Rootstock at Converge to explore the vitality and enchantment that can be found in the green spaces and plants of the York St John University campus. This course comprises a series of five workshops where we will explore the folklore and enchanting stories associated with various British plants, how they have been utilised in the past, and how they continue to be used today. We will also engage in gentle, non-intimidating interactive practices to deepen our sensory connection to the plants before creating individual collage-based artworks using various materials as a keepsake of the day and our experiences.

These immersive workshops are suitable for all levels, whether you are seeking creativity, spirituality, wellbeing, or simply a deeper understanding. The workshops will also help you develop the perspective of being entangled within nature as opposed to being separate from it. This gentle shift in perspective not only supports ecological care and social justice but can also be helpful for our mental well-being. It reminds us that we are connected, rooted, and not alone, and that we are part of a larger, more enchanted world. 

Introduction to Criminology and Sociology

Course length: 8 weeks

Learning type: Online through Converge Connected

This course introduces students to key areas of criminology and sociology through engaging in discussion, activities, and reflection framed around key concepts and ideas. We will explore a variety of criminological and sociological perspectives to help us think critically about contemporary issues. This may involve examining crime and responses to it, understanding media representations or focusing on identities such as class and gender. The course will prepare students to identify and respond to social problems critically and creatively by supporting students to explore a topic of their choice in a mini research project.